CHINESE HERBS :: What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine is one of the great herbal systems of the world, going back to the 3rd century BC. Throughout its history it has evolved in response to changing clinical conditions, and has been sustained by research into every aspect of its use. Due to it’s clinical effectiveness, it has for centuries had a very great influence on the theory and practice of medicine in the East, and more recently has grown rapidly in popularity in the West. Chinese Herbal Medicine is based on the concepts of Yin and Yang. It aims to treat the many ways in which the balance and harmony between the two may be out of order and the ways in which a person's Qi may be depleted or blocked. Clinical strategies are based upon diagnosis of patterns of signs and symptoms that reflect an imbalance.​However, the tradition as a whole places great emphasis on lifestyle habits and practices to prevent disease before it occurs. Health is more than just the absence of disease. Herbal medicine has unique function to maintain and enhance our capacity for well being and happiness.

Hepatitis and HIV: some promising results have been obtained for treatment of Hepatitis C, and supportive treatment may be beneficial in the case of HIV

Chronic fatigue syndromes, whether with a background of viral infection or in other situations

​Many of these conditions, especially in their chronic forms, create great difficulty for conventional medicine. Chinese Herbal Medicine has a great deal to offer. The results that can be expected and how long a patient will have to take the herbs for will depend on the severity of the condition, its duration, and the general health of the patient.

Who can take Chinese Herbal medicine and are herbs safe?

Chinese medicine can be used by people of any age or constitution. Your practitioner will take any previous or current illness or medication into account before prescribing herbs to you. Chinese herbs are very safe when prescribed correctly by a properly trained practitioner. Adverse reactions can occur with any form of medicine. In the case of Chinese herbal medicine these are rare.